How To Quit Your Job Without Burning Your Bridges

Posted: 05/11/2014 by
Cox Purtell

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string(3063) "Today is the day you’re quitting your job.
This day was inevitable. We all leave a business at some point and it doesn’t really matter if you’ve been with the company for 10 months or 10 years, you are likely to be spending more time there than at your own home, which can make resigning an uncomfortable endeavour.
To make your departure as pleasant and professional as possible follow these simple steps to efficiently handle your resignation.
1. Review your contract
Ensure you review your contract and any related HR documentation to determine the amount of notice and any additional terms you need to prepare for your resignation.
2. Give plenty of notice
While your contract will outline your expected notice, you could see what other well-regarded people have done in the past and consider more than your standard notice period. The more notice you give to your employer, the more it will help the business prepare for a smooth transition.
3. Write a professional resignation letter (but deliver the news in person)Official written notice should be in traditional letter format with a clear description and information summarising the facts. You should include your thankfulness with a formal closing.
4. Tell your boss
Unless there are extraordinary circumstances delivering the news to your boss in person is a must. Keep the conversation concise and positive. Be polite about your reasons for leaving and sincere with your appreciations. During the conversation ask how your boss would like your resignation communicated to colleagues.
This is also an opportunity to ask your boss if you can use him/her as a referee for future career moves.
5. Stay focused
This is important. Maintain a positive attitude and continue to work hard. Step up your game to leave no doubt in their mind that you are an exceptional employee.
6. Handover
Ensure you organise an effective handover. Invest time in quality training, share your knowledge and write up process documents for your successor. Doing so will demonstrate professionalism and that you value the business.
7. Exit Interview
While an exit interview may seem like a place to air all gripes, this isn’t always the best approach. Always be honest; but remember to stay professional by providing constructive feedback with positive learnings.
Whatever the circumstances, quitting your job should be done with professionalism and tact. By approaching your resignation and final weeks with integrity, you will maintain a positive relationship with your employer.
You may be closing the door but you don’t want it to lock."
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Today is the day you’re quitting your job.

This day was inevitable. We all leave a business at some point and it doesn’t really matter if you’ve been with the company for 10 months or 10 years, you are likely to be spending more time there than at your own home, which can make resigning an uncomfortable endeavour.

To make your departure as pleasant and professional as possible follow these simple steps to efficiently handle your resignation.

1. Review your contract

Ensure you review your contract and any related HR documentation to determine the amount of notice and any additional terms you need to prepare for your resignation.

2. Give plenty of notice

While your contract will outline your expected notice, you could see what other well-regarded people have done in the past and consider more than your standard notice period. The more notice you give to your employer, the more it will help the business prepare for a smooth transition.

3. Write a professional resignation letter (but deliver the news in person)

Official written notice should be in traditional letter format with a clear description and information summarising the facts. You should include your thankfulness with a formal closing.

4. Tell your boss

Unless there are extraordinary circumstances delivering the news to your boss in person is a must. Keep the conversation concise and positive. Be polite about your reasons for leaving and sincere with your appreciations. During the conversation ask how your boss would like your resignation communicated to colleagues.

This is important. Maintain a positive attitude and continue to work hard. Step up your game to leave no doubt in their mind that you are an exceptional employee.

6. Handover

Ensure you organise an effective handover. Invest time in quality training, share your knowledge and write up process documents for your successor. Doing so will demonstrate professionalism and that you value the business.

7. Exit Interview

While an exit interview may seem like a place to air all gripes, this isn’t always the best approach. Always be honest; but remember to stay professional by providing constructive feedback with positive learnings.

Whatever the circumstances, quitting your job should be done with professionalism and tact. By approaching your resignation and final weeks with integrity, you will maintain a positive relationship with your employer.